Sinks to the grave with unperceived decay,
while resignation gently slopes the way. [ Goldsmith ]

But on he moves to meet his latter end,
Angels around befriending virtue's friend;
Sinks to the grave with unperceived decay,
While resignation gently slopes the way;
And all his prospects bright'ning to the last,
His heaven commences, ere the world be past! [ Goldsmith ]

While resignation gently slopes the way;
And, all his prospects brightening to the last,
His heaven commences ere the world be past. [ Goldsmith ]